KAMPALA — National Enterprise Corporation (NEC) Managing Director Lt Gen James Mugira paid a glowing tribute to retired Lt Gen Charles Otema Awany, describing him as a patriot, distinguished soldier and trusted comrade whose contribution to Uganda’s security and development will remain part of the country’s military history for generations.
In a heartfelt farewell message following Otema Awany’s retirement from the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), Mugira reflected on a friendship and military partnership spanning more than four decades, during which the two officers served together in some of Uganda’s most demanding military operations.
Mugira said Otema Awany dedicated the greater part of his life to defending Uganda and strengthening the UPDF, earning the respect of colleagues, subordinates and the nation at large through discipline, sacrifice and exemplary leadership.
“Today we celebrate not just a military career, but a life devoted to service, patriotism and commitment to the people of Uganda,” Mugira said in his tribute. “Lt Gen Otema Awany has served his country with distinction and leaves behind a legacy that every soldier should aspire to emulate.”
The NEC boss recalled serving alongside Otema Awany during the difficult years of the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) insurgency in northern Uganda, where UPDF forces undertook prolonged operations to restore peace and security in the region. He also highlighted their participation in the Garamba operations in the Democratic Republic of Congo, one of the major regional military campaigns aimed at dismantling remnants of the rebel group.
According to Mugira, Otema Awany’s contribution during those operations demonstrated courage, resilience and professionalism, qualities that would later define his rise through the ranks of the UPDF.
“He made an outstanding contribution to the counter-insurgency operations in Northern Uganda and to the professional growth of the UPDF,” Mugira noted, adding that the retiring general leaves the institution “stronger and better than he found it.”
Beyond the battlefield, Mugira praised Otema Awany for helping shape strategic institutions within the defence establishment. He singled out the retired general’s role at NEC, where he served as a member of the NEC Board and chaired the NEC Farm Katonga Ltd Sub-Board.
Mugira said Otema Awany brought invaluable experience, wisdom and leadership to the corporation, helping guide several initiatives aimed at strengthening the commercial arm of the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs.
“His contribution was not limited to military operations. He also played a significant role in supporting NEC’s growth and strategic direction. His counsel, commitment and leadership have been invaluable,” Mugira said.
The NEC Managing Director described Otema Awany as a “true comrade, friend and patriot” whose influence extends beyond military service and into national development.
The retirement of Lt Gen Otema Awany marks the end of a military career spanning more than 40 years, a period that saw Uganda overcome numerous security challenges while transforming the UPDF into a professional force with growing regional and international recognition.
Military colleagues who have worked with him over the years describe him as a calm but firm leader, dedicated to duty and deeply committed to the welfare of the soldiers under his command.
As family members, fellow officers and friends gathered to celebrate his retirement, the occasion served as both a farewell and a recognition of decades of sacrifice in service to the nation.
Mugira said while Otema Awany may be retiring from active military service, his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of UPDF officers.
“His story is one of loyalty, sacrifice and unwavering commitment to Uganda. The nation owes him gratitude for a lifetime of dedicated service,” he said.
Background
Lt Gen Charles Otema Awany has been among the senior UPDF officers serving on the NEC Board, the governing body of the commercial arm of the UPDF. NEC was established to support national development through investments in manufacturing, agriculture, construction, logistics and other strategic sectors.
His retirement comes as the UPDF continues to honour senior officers whose service helped shape the institution from its formative years into one of the region’s most established for
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